Nutz4 Reading's Thoughts....

The Undertaker by William Brown - Review and Interview

2011-12-30T12:36:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Holiday Season. I am ending this year on a review and my first author inteview. The review will be first and the interview will follow.

First I want to thank Mr. William Brown for giving me the opportunity to read his newest suspense novel The Undertaker. I will be looking at more works written by William Brown.

The Undertaker is a suspenseful on the edge of your seat novel. I found myself reading whenever I had a free moment. When I was at a red light I had my phone out and was reading The Undertaker while I waited for the green light. I think you can say I was hooked from the beginning.

Peter Talbott is a man who was married to Terri. Peter became a widower when his wife Terri became ill and died. Terri's death hit Peter hard and he hit rock bottom. His friends thought he died in a car crash in Mexico.

Peter is brought into trouble when a guy named Gino shows Peter his obituary and his wife's from an Ohio newspaper. Peter is very much alive and wants to know why someone is impersonating him and his dead wife.

Mr. Brown does a fantastic job of keeping you guessing as to who is really the good guy until the very end. He keeps your eyes glued to the pages and your heart racing till the climatic end.

INTERVIEW WITH MR. WILLIAM BROWN

Did you want to be a writer when you were a child?

No, not really, although I did try my hand at some short stories when I was 8 or 10. I was mostly a reader all the way up into my 20s . . . mostly history, international suspense, and adventure fiction.

How did you get into writing?

I read one too many bad books. (It was a surprisingly bad Clive Cussler novel, but don’t tell anyone!) I turned to my wife and said, “I can do something this bad!” So, I went to the library, read a bunch of books on how to write novels (I was a history major, not an English major) and gave it a try. Forty rejections later, “The Allah Conspiracy” was bought by Beaufort Books.

What other jobs did you do before you became a writer?

My ‘day jobs’ were as a city and county planner, then a vice president of the real estate development subsidiary of a Fortune 500 firm, where I built business parks across the country.

Do you write long-had or straight onto a computer?

All of the above . . . longhand, then a small typewriter with a gallon of White Out, a correcting typewriter, and finally a succession of bigger and faster PCs. Next, I suppose I’ll try Dragon and dictate text into the computer, but not yet. That brings up visions of Barbara Cartland, the late British romance author, who would lay back on a ‘psychiatrist’s’ couch in a pink feathered gown and dictate her novels whole-cloth to her secretary.

What’s the best part about being an author? And the worst?

I think it keeps your brain sharp and busy. The downside is the long waits while agents, publishers, and others take forever to do things, and the frustrations of a bad market and the occasional bad review, not that I’ve had many. The Undertaker now has 34 Amazon reviews, 16 of which are 5-Star, 16 Four-Star, and 2 Three-Star, so I can’t complain.

How did The Undertaker come to be published?

This was an experiment with e-books. Until now, I had only pursued traditional publishers, but that market is now horrible. They have slowly concentrated on blockbusters, while all the former ‘mid-market’ books (most of us) got passed over and have now gone electronic. With no more Harry Potters, they are in a real squeeze and get no sympathy from me.

What tips would you give to aspiring writers out there?

Write what you know and like. Don’t write to what you think the market is, because you’ll be wrong by the time you finish.

Does the character or plot come first?

I begin my thinking with a 1-line concept that gets successively expanded; but in the end, it is interesting characters that drives the story and gets the reader to care. My best writing is in my characters, especially the evil ones, my action scenes, and cliff-hanger pacing.

You have authored a total of six suspense novels and 3 have been published. Is anything in the works for the other three suspense novels?

I am in the process of bringing the next 5 out as e-books in 2012. While The Undertaker is a contemporary story, snarky, even humorous at times, with a strong love-angle; most of the others are sweeping, international suspense, action, adventure stories set in the mid 1940s thru the 1960s. Amongst My Enemies came out on Amazon last week and will be out on the other sites in a couple of weeks. It deals with a sunken German U-boat full of gold and a secret that can tear NATO apart. Next will come Thursday at Noon, a middle-east thriller originally published as a Joan Kahn Book by St. Martins and reviewed by The New Yorker. I then have One Good Shot, an updated version of The Allah Conspiracy to finish, and finally, Winner Lose All, which is currently out with my agent. That is a lot of work, but after that, I’ll get back to Through the Glass Darkly, a more contemporary suspense novel like The Undertaker.

I understand that you are a dog person, so what is your favorite breed of dog and why?

Hands down, a cocker spaniel, although I’m also partial to Goldens, which are really up-sized cockers and very loving. Probably the nicest of all, however, was Buffy, my son’s dog, which was a mix of a strong Golden Retriever head and body, and Bassett Hound legs. You have to think about that for a minute to picture it.

I would like to thank Mr. William Brown for taking the time to answer my questions. I hope everyone enjoys the interview and decides to buy a copy of THE UNDERTAKER!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

2011-10-01T20:59:00.000-04:00

I have decided to try and read all the Harry Potter books again since the last move was released this year. I have read every book except for the last one many times. My goal is to finish all 7 books by the end of the year. I am not doing so well. I am currently on book 4 and I haven't gotten very far. Hopefully I will complete this challenge.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is the beginning of the life of an ordinary boy until he receives some mysterious letters. His aunt and uncle are determined not to let Harry receive these letters.

The story is slow at first just so that you can be introduced to the many characters. You meet Dumbledore, Harry, Aunt Petunia, Uncle Vernon, Dudley, Hermione, Ron, Hagrid and many more. I love all the interesting descriptions of these characters this helps with being able to connect with them on a very personal level.

Harry is surprised to learn that he is a wizard and that his parents were great ones. I loved the part when Harry learns that he is a wizard. Hagrid is a huge lovable character. He is like a big teddy bear.

Harry learns a lot about his new world before he even starts at Hogwarts. Harry doesn't know anything about the Wizarding World and he is afraid of making a total fool of himself. While Harry is shopping for his supplies he meets his young nemesis Draco Malfoy. Harry is very alert as to not trusting him from the start.

I could go on and on about this book even though it isn't my favorite. It is great for being the first book in the series but not the best.

4 1/2 stars

The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton

2011-10-01T20:54:00.000-04:00

This is my all time favorite book and movie. The images below are one of the book cover and one of the actors that starred in the movie.

The movie!!

The Book

I read this book again just because I love it so much. Plus I really want to watch the movie. I am just not paying $3.00 to watch it. I cried as soon as I started reading the Outsiders. I think this is one book that everyone should read.

The Outsiders is the story of the Greasers and Socs. Ponyboy is the one who narrates this story. Ponyboy is 14 years old and lives with his two brothers, Darry and Sodapop. Their parents are dead and Ponyboy is always afraid that Sodapop and him will be put into a boys home if they get into trouble.

The other members of the Greasers are: Dally, Johnny, Two-bit, and Steve. The Socs are: Bob and Randy, there are 2 Soc girls named Sherry Valance (aka: Cherry) and Marcia. Johnny, Dally and Ponyboy go to the movies. Dally teases the two Soc girls Sherry and Marcia. Johnny tells Dally to stop picking on them and he leaves. Ponyboy and Johnny sit with the girls and watch the rest of the movie.

After the movie is when the problems start. Johnny, Two-bit and Ponyboy decide to walk the girls to Two-bits house so that they can drive them home. Cherry and Marcia's boyfriends drive by and almost start a fight with them telling them never to pick up their girls. Cherry and Marcia stop the fight from happening.

Johnny and Ponyboy are the two that get jumped later by the Socs and are almost killed. They run to Dally for help. This is when Johnny and Ponyboy really do start to grow up and learn things about themselves and life. I am not going to reveal to much more because I feel this is a book everyone should read.

5 stars

Review - That Day in September by Artie Van Why

2011-10-01T20:46:00.000-04:00

I am finally getting to post my review for That Day in September. I wanted to post it in September but I work in a school district and it was just so hectic at work I didn't have the time. Better late then never.

I want to thank Mr. Artie Van Why for giving me a chance to read his story on the events of September 11, 2001. That Day in September is the first book I have ever read about that fateful day. I do have a fascination about actual events and to have the chance to feel what it was like to be there through the words of someone that was there is one that I will never pass up.

That Day In September had me tearing up right from the beginning. I know what I was doing when the attack happened and it touch me then and it touch me again reading this book. Yet to read a first hand experience makes me realize how much different it was for me then for everyone in New York. I cannot even start to say what it was like to be working right next to the World Trade Center and hearing a loud boom.

Mr. Van Why writes from the heart as he recounts his steps during the attack on the World Trade Center and the days and months that follow. Most of us may have suffered for a few days but those who live and work in New York saw the damage for months after the incident. They had a reminder of all the lives lost every day. There are parts of the book when Artie talks about strangers comforting each other and how he felt like New York had become like a family to him.

Everyone of us should reflect and remember September 11, 2001 especially with the 10th anniversary so close upon us now. Take the time to read That Day in September and remember those lives lost.

5 stars

Keep Watching!!

2011-08-30T21:23:00.000-04:00

I just want to let everyone know to keep watching Nutz4reading's Thoughts. More reviews will be posted this week. And look for an upcoming giveaway to happen in the future. I am hoping to start doing some more giveaways and interviews soon.

Start following so you are in the know!!

Update from Hurricane

2011-08-30T21:21:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to let all my readers know that I am fine and that I had no problems during the hurricane. I was very lucky to not have lost power or have any major damage to myself, family, house etc.

I would like it if everyone would just remember those that did suffer some sort of damage during the hurricane.

The east coast was very lucky and the storm turned out to be less threatening than expected. I did have a tornado watch for our area which frightened me a lot. I did learn one thing during this hurricane. Do not look at all the posts on Facebook about the Hurricane. I was more worried when reading the posts then any other time.

Preparing for Hurricane Irene

2011-08-27T11:35:00.000-04:00

I am sure everyone has heard of the hurricane/tropical storm that is scheduled to hit the eastern states today (Aug. 27, 2011) and continue into late Sunday. I am in that path and decided to post to let everyone know that I am hoping to get a lot of reading done during this storm.

I believe I have myself prepared with new flash lights. I couldn't find any of the ones I already own. They just up and walked off I think. I even put jugs of water in the freezer so that if the power goes off I at least have some cold water to drink and use for other things if needed.

The past couple of days have been very interesting. So many people running out and buying water, food, generators and other things. We were talking at work about how some people we saw with gallons of water, and milk. One person had 8 loaves of bread. I hope she has a huge family otherwise the birds are going to be well fed in her area. I am not trying to take this storm lightly. I just figure I am not going to spend money on water when I can just as easily take all my containers and freeze water if I need it. I bought food that will feed me and my son for the storm.

Personally I think the weather forecasters just like to embellish these storms and it just makes people panic. Where I live we had a hurricane/tropical storm go through before and yes we go floods and some places lost power. The children were in school and they got dismissed early. Some children took forever to get home because roads were under water and the bus couldn't make it through. I am just going to take the storm as it comes. Hope the Good Lord is looking out for me and my family.

Now to all who are in the path of the storm stay safe. If you are supposed to be evacuated then please evacuate. I am praying for the safety of all who are in the path of Irene and those who have already been hit by the storm.

Some things to do during this hurricane/tropical storm is to read, play games with the children or family members, cuddle with your pets, and watch mother nature at work. Get yourself ready for the storm of the decade... :)

Stay Safe Everyone!!

The End of Summer...

2011-08-10T19:32:00.000-04:00

Well the end of Summer is drawing nearer everyday. I will be going back to normal work hours next week, yeah!! Which means 8 hours days instead of 10 hour days. It will take me forever to learn to sleep past 5 am. I do like to be up early and stay up late. Now hopefully I will be able to get some reading done before going to bed at night.

Now that Summer is winding down in the U.S., at least, do you have plans now that the kids will be going back to school. Did your children do any summer reading? Did you have to force them to read? What did they read?

I remember when my children were young taking them to one of the local libraries and checking out books for them to read. Sometimes they were all gung ho about it and other times they could care less. The library also had some camps for them to do. I signed them up one year and they enjoyed themselves. My son did one for Science. I can't remember what my daughter decided to do.

Now my children are older and I don't get them to go to the library as often. The last time my son went he was looking at reference books just to read. He loves to learn and reading factual books seems to be what he enjoys. My daughter I haven't taken to the library lately. She is in college and she talks about the books that she has to read and the ones she has read. Sometimes I do get to keep some of them but not often.

Those are my thoughts for today. I hope to post more often. I will have a review coming soon, just not going to say for what...

Happy Reading and thanks for visiting!!

Tears for the lives lost 9/11

2011-08-02T21:19:00.000-04:00

I want to thank Mr. Artie Van Why for giving me a chance to read his story on the events of September 11, 2001. That Day in September is the first book I have ever read about that fateful day. I do have a fascination about actual events and to have the chance to feel what it was like to be there through the words of someone that was there is one that I will never pass up.

That Day In September had me tearing up right from the beginning. I know what I was doing when the attack happened and it touch me then and it touch me again reading this book. Yet to read a first hand experience makes me realize how much different it was for me then for everyone in New York. I cannot even start to say what it was like to be working right next to the World Trade Center and hearing a loud boom.

Mr. Van Why writes from the heart as he recounts his steps during the attack on the World Trade Center and the days and months that follow. Most of us may have suffered for a few days but those who live and work in New York saw the damage for months after the incident. They had a reminder of all the lives lost every day. There are parts of the book when Artie talks about strangers comforting each other and how he felt like New York had become like a family to him.

Everyone of us should reflect and remember September 11, 2001 especially with the 10th anniversary so close upon us now. Take the time to read That Day in September and remember those lives lost.

5 stars

Review - Paper Towns by John Green

2011-07-24T14:00:00.000-04:00

Have you ever heard of Paper Towns? I didn't know what to expect when I picked up this book by John Green. This book was recommended by an online friend from my website. I am glad I finally read it. I found the story very entertaining. The story made me think about my time in high school.

Paper Towns is the story of teenagers and just them discovering things about themselves and their friends. How would you react if you just learned that your boyfriend and best girl friend were hooking up? Your friends knew but didn't bother to tell you? Would you just snap or would you do something like Margo Roth Spiegelman does in Paper Towns.

Paper Towns follows Quentin Jacobsen and Margo Roth Spiegelman on an adventure and mystery. Q is the good kid and doesn't do anything wrong. Margo is the adventurous type. Two different personalities that were friends when the were young yet have grown apart like so many of us do over time.

I suggest taking some time and pick up Paper Towns and just enjoy the adventure.

A little tid bit I learned while reading the book is that Paper Towns were created so that cartographers could protect against copyright infringement. So if you ever come across a place on a map and you are unable to find it then it most likely does not exist.

5 stars

Review - ER Book - The Silent Enemy by Thomas W. Young

2011-07-24T12:03:00.000-04:00

I won this book through Library Thing's Early Reviewers Program (ER). I want to that both Library Thing and Putnam books for giving me this opportunity to read and review this book.

Silent Enemy is the story of Major Parson and Sergeant Gold. We were first introduced to these two characters in Young's previous book The Mullah's Storm. I am not familiar with that book yet I still found Silent Enemy easy to follow.

Major Parson is pilot in the Air-force and Sergeant Gold is from the Army working as a teacher in Afghanistan to help train those who want to become police and make Afghanistan a better place. Her school/police office is bombed and students and staff are injured. Gold and her friends and colleagues become patients of Major Parson's aircraft.

Parson's aircraft is now considered an Air Evac mission. The story doesn't get interesting until the Air Evac is in flight and they learn of a bomb threat to all aircraft that left Bagram Air Base. Parson's is left with trying to figure out what to do to protect his crew and the patients. The most logical thing is to find the bomb and to try and diffuse it.

Parson's crew search the aircraft and don't find a bomb. During the search Parson learns of 2 planes that had left Bagram have gone down. Now the threat of a bomb is more prominent then first thought. One place on the plane they didn't look is a place you usually don't go into during a flight. Parson decides that section needs to be checked and he has to depressurize the plane to search it.

The intricacies of the story are sometimes long and drawn out as you are reading. Parson's character sometime remembers his last time with Sergeant Gold and how they handled that crisis. Some of their pasts are brought up and how they are reacting to the current situation.

So will Air Evac survive or go down like the other planes that have left Bagram Air Base? You will need to pick up your copy of Silent Enemy to discover what happens.

4 stars

Review - The Secret Garden

2011-07-24T11:58:00.001-04:00

Now many may be surprised to learn that I never read this book as a child. I have heard of it but wan never one to read books just because everyone said they were good or that I should read them. I could be very defiant when it came to reading.

I am glad that I did finally read this book. I have seen parts of the movie but never from the beginning. This is a very nice story of a girl, two boys and a secret garden. The names of the children are Mary, Dickon and Colon.

Mary is quite contrary is what children from India called her when she lived there with her parents. When her parents and everyone she knew had died she was sent to live with her uncle. At first she was not happy to be in England. She is very thin and looks ill but once she starts venturing outside and getting exercise and fresh air everyone notices how she grows and changes.

She meets Dickon and those two start taking care of the Secret Garden. One night Mary hears some one crying and is determined to find out who it is. She finds a boy in his room crying. This is her cousin Colon that she did not know existed. The bonds that are formed between all three children is quite remarkable and believable.

4 stars

A Sad, Sad Day...

2011-07-21T11:42:00.000-04:00

I am very upset about the news I just heard. My favorite book store is closing all of their stores. If you haven't heard it is Borders that is closing all of the remaining stores that are open. When I found out about this I was very upset and now wondering if I will have to go to B&N for all my book purchases. I don't care that much for Amazon as a book seller. And I feel that B&N can be over priced. Those are just my opinions.

I used to shop at B&N before I realized that there was a Borders just down the street from B&N. I have gone to midnight parties for Harry Potter and Twilight at both B&N and Borders. I felt more like family at Borders then I did at B&N. I remember my sister working for Waldenbooks and just hearing her stories about the books, customers and the people she worked with. Now I just have to get my emotions in check so that I can decide where I will be buying my books.

I always ask for gift cards to Borders because I know I can find the books that I want and they always have the best deals on books and everything. How is this going to change the book industry? Does this mean that the usual physical stores are going to close and only e-books will be available? I really enjoy going to Borders and just sitting down and picking up a book and just reading it while in the store. This way I can decide if I want the book before buying it. I know that you can do this at B&N but I don't find it as cozy as Borders.

How do you feel about this closing? Are you one that just buys from online retailers or do you like going to the book store and actually smelling the books and the atmosphere? I partly wish that I had money to purchase Borders because I really hate seeing this company go out of business.

I am providing a link to a news article I found on the internet at MSN:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/43797505/ns/business-consumer_news/'%20rel='nofollow

Definitely Dead By Charlaine Harris

2011-07-09T21:05:00.000-04:00

I am slowly making my way through the Sookie Stackhouse series. I started reading the series due to my online friends at Books and Chat talking about the series on HBO called True Blood. I wanted to watch True Blood and realized I also wanted to read the books before hand. I will say that the HBO series doesn't follow the books completely. I still love both of them.

The sixth installment of the Sookie Stackhouse series. I enjoyed the book and the stories. Sookie again is mixed up with trouble and she tries to figure out who has made her a target again. I did get tired of being reminded of what happened in the previous book.

There wasn't as much romance in this book as in the previous books. There was one scene where Sookie and her newest supe interest were fully clothed and both were sexually satisfied. I found that scene interesting because it made me think of two teenagers having sex for the first time and not being able to get undressed before having an orgasm. Sookie's newest interest is a weretiger by the name of Quinn.

Sookie also learns why she has so many supes interested in her. She finds out that she has very special blood and vampires are very in tuned to it. She also learns the truth about Bill and begins to question their whole relationship.

Sookie meets a new witch named Amelia. Sookie and Amelia become friends by the end of the book. Amelia asks Sookie if she could join her in Bon Temps for awhile. Now I just wonder what the seventh book has in store for Sookie and possibly Amelia.

4 stars

My Reading List of 2010

2011-07-08T21:13:00.000-04:00

I don't believe I ever posted a full list of all the books I read in 2010. Now I have decided to post them, a little late but now you can see how my reading was in 2010:

January
The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
The Surgeon by Tess Gerritsen
You did it for me by Robert Hug
American Wife by Curtis Sittenfeld
Living Dead in Dallas by Charlaine Harris

February
Dear John by Nicholas Sparks
The Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey
The Zookeeper's Wife by Diane Ackerman
Club Dead by Charlaine Harris

March
When the Phone Rang by Harry Mazer
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
Final Target by Iris Johansen

April
Genoa Bay by Bette Nordberg
The Soloist by Steve Lopez
The Broken Blue Line by Connie Dial

May
Down River by John Hart
Flash Terminal Velocity by Mark Waid
Someone Is Out There by Carole Standish
Sidney Sheldon's After the Darkness by Sidney Sheldon
Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane

June
Dolores Claiborne by Stephen King
Dead to the World by Charlaine Harris

July
Blind Faith by Ben Elton
Dead as a Doornail by Charlaine Harris
Girl Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen
Twilight: The Complete Illustrated Movie Companion by Mark Cotta Vaz
In Harm's Way by Ridley Pearson
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn

August
Snagged by Carol Higgins Clark
Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man by Steve Harvey (8/15/10)
Nights in Rodanthe by Nicholas Sparks (8/19/10)

September
Julie and Julia by Julie Powell (9/11/10)
The Help by Kathryn Stockett (9/21/10)

October
Cape Refuge by Terry Blackstock (10/3/10)
Open by Andre Agassi (10/7/10)
Pray for Silence by Linda Castillo (10/14/10)

November
Pooh Goes Visiting by A.A. Milne (11/9/10)
Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet By Jamie Ford (11/7/10)
Outside Wonderland by Lorna Jane Cook (11/18/10)
Richard Scarry's ABC's by Richard Scarry (11/22/10)
The Ugly Duckling by Landoll (11/22/10)
What's for Lunch? by John Schindel & kevin O'Malley (11/22/10)
Cinderella by Henry W. Hewet (11/26/10)
The Reckoning by Howard Owen (11/28/10)

December
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson (12/1/10)
Deeper Than the Dead by Tami Hoag (12/22/10)
King Lear by William Shakespeare (12/31/10)

I read a total of 53 books last year. That is an accomplishment for me. Love to read your comments about my reading tastes.

Contest

2011-07-08T20:50:00.002-04:00

Well I am posting this to inform you that a friend of mine is having a contest. Here is the link to the contest

http://musingsofabookshopgirl.blogspot.com/2011/07/page-to-screen-launches-with-giveaway.html

Good luck and read her reviews. She is a wonderful young lady!!

My Reading List for this year 2011

2011-07-08T20:36:00.002-04:00

Here is a list of all the books I have read this year. My goal is to read at least 75 books by Dec. 31 2011. I think I am doing a good job so far. I only need 35 books in just about 5 months.

List of books 2011:
January
1. Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel (finished 1/18/11)TIOLI Challenge January #1
2. Damaged by Alex Kava (finished 1/19/11) TIOLI Challenge January #7
3. Blind Man's Alley by Justin Peacock (finished 1/24/11
4. Dead Center by Joanna Higgins (finished 1/27/11)

February
5. The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory (finished 2/5/11)
6. To Hold the Crown by Jean Plaidy (finished 2/22/11)
7. Sarah's Key by Tatiana De Rosnay (finished 2/13/11)
8. Aftermath:A Snapped Novel by Tracy Brown (finished 2/26/11) TIOLI Challenge February

March
9. Kabul Beauty School by Deborah Rodriguez (finished 3/5/11)
10. For One More Day by Mitch Albom (finished 3/6/11)
11. gone with a handsomer man by Michael Lee West (finished 3/14/11)
12. So Many Books, So Little Time by Sara Nelson (finished 3/16/11)
13. The Idiot Girls' Action-Adventure Club by Laurie Notaro (finished 3/19/11)
14. Forever Amber Brown by Paula Danziger (finished 3/20/11)
15. Fly Away Home by Jennifer Weiner (finished 3/31/11)

April
16. Good Cop, Bad Cop by Barabara D'Amato (finished 4/7/11)
17. Original Sin by Beth McMullen (finished 4/21/11)
18. A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess (finished 4/23/11)

May
19. The Privilege of Youth by Dave Pelzer (finished 5/1/11)
20. One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus (finished 5/12/11)
21. Love Only Once by Johanna Lindsey (finished 5/15/11)
22. Eyes Wide Open by Andrew Gross (finished 5/21/11)
23. The Guide to Owning a Beagle by Andrew Vallilla (finished 5/22/11)
24. Tender Rebel by Johanna Lindsey (finished 5/23/11)
25. reaching Dustin by Vicki Grove (finished 5/24/11)
26. Loving Frank by Nancy Horan (finished 5/30/11)
27. Motherhood the second Oldest profession (finished 5/30/11)

June
28. At Wit's End (finished 6/5/11) TIOLI Challenge June #1
29. Attack on Pearl Harbor (finished 6/5/11) TIOLI Challenge June #1
30. Fourth Grade Rats (finished 6/6/11)
31. Maniac Magee (finished 6/7/11)
32. Nightlight: A Parody by The Harvard Lampoon (finished 6/10/11)
33. Very Bad Men by Harry Dolan (finished 6/12/11)
34. Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston (finished 6/24/11)
35. The Cat Who Talked to Ghosts by Lilian Jackson Braun (finished 6/25/11)
36. Cat's Cradle: A Book of String Figures by Anne Akers Johnson (finished 6/26/11)
37. A House is Built at Pooh Corner for Eeyore by A.A. Milnes (finished 6/26/11)

July
38. Stuck in the Middle by Virginia Smith (finished 7/2/11)
39. Abby Cooper Psychic Eye by Victoria Laurie (finished 7/4/11)
40. Ricky Martin Backstage pass by Kimberly Walsh (finished 7/8/11)

Catching up

2011-07-07T22:03:00.002-04:00

I will be catching up on my blog writing over the next couple of weeks. I have fallen behind on posting my reviews here and just talking about books and things. I will be changing a little bit of my blogs by also posting about movies I have seen or would like to see. Look for reviews to begin again soon.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!

2011-02-14T12:51:00.003-05:00

Since today is St. Valentine's Day I thought I just right a short blog about some great things to do on this sweetheart day. If you have a sweetheart and you don't want to spend money then maybe you could just find a movie you both enjoy, it doesn't have to be a romance, and spend a nice evening at home with the lights low.

If you have kids maybe try to do something with them too. I know I would always love to include my kids, since the children were made out of love. They are the biggest present that you have received from your sweetheart.

Now if you are like me and going to be alone this Valentine's Day then do something for yourself. Maybe get a massage, a manicure, pedicure or just do something you enjoy. If you don't want to spend money then find a book to read, make your favorite meal, or just call some friends and have some fun either at someone's house or just talking for a few minutes.

Valentine's Day does not have to be a day of sadness for those that do not have someone special in there life right now. Just celebrate this day any way you want to.

Happy Valentine's Day!!

CONTESTCONTESTCONTEST

2011-02-14T11:03:00.002-05:00

There is a contest over at Booking with Bingo. Check it out!! You can win two Valentine Day books. One is Death of a Valentine and the other is My Zombie Valentine!! Just read the blog then post your comments!!

Good Luck everyone!!

http://bookinwithbingo.blogspot.com/2011/02/happy-valentines-day-giveaway-double.html

The Expendables - Movie Review

2010-09-11T21:29:00.001-04:00

I went tonight and saw this movie and I have to say I loved it. I found it entertaining and action packed. I am usually not a big fan of Sly Stallone but this movie had many more attractions to it. Jet Li, Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren, Bruce Willis, Steve Austin, Eric Roberts, Mickey Rourke and many more.

I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised as to how many one liners this movie had. Seeing the heads blown off the bodies was fantastic. The martial arts moves that all the actors performed was awesome.

I was sorry that Bruce Willis didn't get any fighting in this movie but it was nice just to see him in the film. The expendables are a group of guys that go in and rescue or stop things from happening. Sly is the lead of the group. He is the one that arranges the jobs.

Jason Stratham's character was unbelievable. All I have to say is he can be my man any day. Just the way he defended his friends and his girl were unforgettable.

If you like a movie with action, romance (yes there is some) and a few laughs then you should go see Expendables.

I know it surprises you that I would say romance. When I say romance I mean there are a few love interests in the movie. And that is why Sly goes back to the island to rescue a girl. Action movies always seem to turn into a chick flick.

I give it 4 1/2 stars

French Cuisine?

2010-09-11T14:57:00.003-04:00

Well I just finished reading Julie and Julia, the book about the blogger that decided to cook all the recipes in Master the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child. I don't even know where to begin with this review. I didn't love the book that is one thing. I didn't really hate the book either. I just know that I will never try to Master the Art of French Cooking. I like to cook but I wouldn't want to torture myself or anyone that I am cooking for either.

I had decided to read Julie and Julia since I had seen parts of the movie already. I enjoyed most of the movie that I have seen. I hope to watch the movie from beginning to end at some point then I can give a better review of the movie.

There are a few things that I didn't care for in the book and that was the ramblings of Julie. The book just felt like she did a lot of rambling and whining. She would complain about her real job, her decision to do this project, her friends, her biological clock ticking away, her mother, etc. You name it she complained about it. It was funny at first but after awhile it became annoying and I noticed that I would skim over those parts. Julie also had a very foul mouth during this project, whether this is a reflection of how she really handles stress or her actual personality I really can't say. I just know that saying the 'f' word as often as she did just doesn't make me think of her as a lady or female.

I would love to hear from some of her followers from the blog. It would be interesting to really just see what they found so fascinating about her project let alone how they actually found the blog and decided to stick with her through the whole project.

I can not tell you to read or not to read this book. You have to decide for yourself because it is not something I feel everyone will enjoy reading. I am not one that will only read so many pages before I decide to stop reading. I will read a book to the end so that I can give it a full review. I may soon decide to start saying that if I am not enjoying the book from either 50 to 100 pages in then I should stop reading the book.

If you love to cook you may enjoy reading this book. If you have Master the Art of French Cooking you may be able to enjoy the book even more since you will undoubtedly be familiar with all if not most of the recipes Julie attempts. I have to give this book about 2 stars. Just not my cup of tea...

Happy reading and thanks for stopping by!!

I am back!!

2010-09-09T22:00:00.002-04:00

I haven't fallen off the face of the earth, yet. I have been busy with work and life. I also have had problems with the computer and I finally got my new one set up. My Apple died on me again, and I am sad. I hope to get either a new one or to get the Apple fixed again.

I am currently reading 4 books. I am reading Julie & Julia, King Lear, Their Eyes were Watching God, and I always forget the 4th book. I am also reading an e-Book called Cape Refuge. I have been reading that one for awhile because I only read it when I don't have any other book on me, which is very rare. I don't have a kindle, nook or any e-Reader. I use my i-Phone and it is hard to read that for long.

Maybe some of you could help me with a decision of whether to buy an e-reader or not. The reasons I am thinking of buying an e-reader are because I will most likely be looking for a new place to live and I don't know if I will have much space to store my actual books. Plus I like the idea of having something else besides reading actual books. I love books but if I don't have the space for them I don't want to be limited to what I can borrow from the library.

So any one out there have an suggestions please post a comment. I hope to have a review posted sometime soon.

Nights in Rodanthe by Nicholas Sparks- my review

2010-08-21T20:20:00.001-04:00

Nights in Rodanthe is another love story by Nicholas Sparks. Adrienne Willis and Paul Flanner are the main characters in Nights in Rodanthe.

Adrienne's husband abandons her for a younger woman and she is heartbroken over it. She is trying to figure out who she is now. Adrienne goes to Rodanthe to look after her friends Inn. Adrienne is hoping to have a relaxing time in Rodanthe except for the major storm that is forecasted. Paul is a doctor who has recently sold his medical practice so that he can go to Ecuador to be with his son and to hopefully repair their relationship.

You can feel the spark between Paul and Adrienne as you read Nights in Rodanthe. With the nor'easter forecast Paul and Adrienne have to prepare the Inn to protect it from the storm. Paul and Adrienne whether the storm together and they get closer very close.

I found myself able to relate to Adrienne in the aspect of having her husband leave her for a younger woman. I was able to understand Adrienne's emotions and her behavior. This made Nights in Rodanthe a pleasure to read.

4 1/2 stars

Act Like a Lady Think Like a Man by Steve Harvey- My review...

2010-08-21T20:16:00.001-04:00

This book has been sitting on my TBR pile for about a year and I decided to read this book now for a few reasons. One of the reasons is I had seen Steve Harvey on the Dr. Phil Show promoting this very book. Reason number 2 is with the problems I am currently having in my marriage I thought this book could possibly enlighten me about men. Now you know there is a third reason, always a third reason. The third reason is because I had read Maria Bastillo's book Act Like a Gentleman, Think Like a Woman, (Absolutely wonderful book), which was written in response to this book. Those are the reasons I decided to read Act Like a Lady Think Like a Man.

So far I have to say this book is funny, informative and is proof that women are superior to men. Okay now that I have your attention you maybe asking yourself why I say women are superior to men. I will just say that is my opinion. The reason I feel that way is because from just reading 50 pages, I feel that men have no depth to their personalities. Women can handle a lot while a man can only handle 3 things and that is to Profess their love for you, (possibly only once in a blue moon), provide for you and protect you and that is it. Men think that is all that matters, those are important yet a true man can grow and learn to add more to their personalities. Women are able to achieve those 3 elements and also include nurturing, listening, friendship and we can also make sure you get the best damn "cookie" in the bedroom without thinking of ourselves. Yes that is how I feel from reading 50 pages.

Now this book is written in 3 parts. Part 1 is the Mind Set of a Man. My first two paragraphs about sum that section up. Part 2: Why Men do What they do. I could say a few choice words or statements to answer this question but I will wait till late to voice them. Part 3: The Playbook: How to win the Game (Do we really want to?). By winning the game Steve is implying that all women want is the ring.

So I have read part 2 and still I believe that women are superior to men. I also feel that men are very self centered. Now part two discusses Why men are the way they are. Well I will try to say this as nice as possible,Men don't think with their brains, they think with their... you know what they think with. In this book Steve Harvey "enlightens" women to the fact that men do what they do because they can. I have to say that is true, or better yet I will say me do what they do because they think they can. This section informs us that men only want one thing from women and I don't have to tell you what it is. Men also think about women in two ways either a Keeper or a Throw back. Also covered in this section is Why Men Cheat. From personal experience I have to say men cheat because they are a**holes, idiots, and only care about themselves. I do have to say that I found the cheating chapter informative and did help me in realizing that I don't want to be with a man who cheats. Once a man cheats he is always going to be a cheater. Even after being married for 21 years, he will always be a cheater. This section can be helpful if you are open to actually realizing that things about yourself, men and how you handle relationships.

Now onto the Playbook, so that us women can win the true man of our dreams!!! I have to tell you I wrote in this book. Don't get mad or angry, I usually don't write in books but this section allows it and so I decided to do it. So that I can set my standards and get the respect I deserve from a man.

The third section tells us how to get the final prize of the ring. Steve Harvey reiterates over and over again that men are simple beings. They don't think as much about commitment as women do. I found this section very informative in telling women what to do and not to do to gain the commitment they want. Women should not get into deep with a man before asking questions. Steve mentions 5 questions we should ask over a period of time and before giving up the cookie.

There is so much a woman will learn from reading Act Like a Lady, Think like a Man. You will gain a better understanding of how 2 dimensional men really are. Now that I have read Steve Harvey's book I am hoping to try some of his suggestions mentioned in the book. I also found myself analyzing my current relationship which seems on the verge of a divorce. Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man is a wonderful book for all women to read.

Remember Women to always act Like a Lady, because it will make your man happy!!!

4 stars

Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist

2010-08-01T08:04:00.003-04:00

I have been reading a big variety of books this year. A mixture of Early Reviewer books and books that have been sitting on my shelf for ages. Well Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist is one of those books I have been putting off reading for awhile. Here is my review of Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist:

Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist is a charming young adult book about relationships, love and music. I loved the book and found it very entertaining. Nick is a bassist in a Queercore punk band and he is straight. Norah is a girl whose father is a music executive and is usually very straight laced and doesn't do anything wrong or out of the ordinary until she meets Nick.

I loved how they met in the book. Nick's band has just finished performing and he sees his ex with another guy and it hurts him. So he asks Norah is she will be his girlfriend for the next 5 minutes. The way Norah answers him is just so not typical most girls, she decides to kiss him. Both of their reactions to the kiss are so real that I just continued to root for them as a couple.

The chapters are written from both Nick and Norah's point of views, alternating, which I found very charming. You got to see how they each felt about the things that happened. Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist is about their whole night together in New York. Both have past baggage that they keep bottled up and have hurt both of them in trying to get into a new relationships. Their friends are the ones that see the truth of their feelings and play an underlying role in getting them to realize it.

This is a nice quick easy read for a nice relaxing summer evening, afternoon, or day. So if you need a nice enjoyable, relaxing read then pick up Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist.

Now I just need to watch the movie and then I will give my thoughts on how the book was to the movie.

5 stars

The Most Awesomeness Movie of the Summer!!

2010-07-31T16:48:00.001-04:00

Inception is fantastic!!!

Well I just came from seeing Inception and I have to say that I loved the movie. I can't believe that I had to wait until I had no one to go to the movies with to see it. This movie is a movie with everything, suspense, action, characters with depth and so much more.

Leonardo DiCaprio does a fantastic job of portraying his character Cobb. I found myself so engrossed in the movie that I didn't want the movie to end. The special effects are so intense you could hear the audience marvel at them during the movie.

When you go to see Inception, you need to have no other distractions. This movie is understandable as long as you pay attention. Inception is not a movie to go to with people that like to make comments during movies. Your full attention will be on the screen the whole time.

The music score for Inception is perfectly composed. I recommend this movie for mostly everyone over the age of 14. Go see INCEPTION!!!

5 stars

In Harm's Way by Ridley Pearson ~ Review

2010-07-30T16:43:00.002-04:00

Well I won this book through LibraryThing's Early Reviewers Program. Most of the ARCs I have read and reviewed on this blog have been won through that program. I am always thrilled when I win a book from the ER program. I know some people that seem to do this for a living. They either receive books from actual publishers or authors. There reviews are also much better written then mine, even though sometimes I just skim the review because the review is too long for my liking. Now onto my review.

This is the first book that I have ever read by Ridley Pearson and I have to say I find his work pleasantly enticing. I love reading mysteries and was thrilled to win this book from the Early Reviewers program. I started reading the book as soon as it arrived in my mailbox.

In Harm's Way is the 4th book in the Walt Fleming Novels. I am honored to say that I was able to enjoy the book even though I was not familiar with the characters in the novel prior to reading this book.

Walt Fleming is sheriff in a small town in Idaho who is raising two twin eleven year old girls. I found Walt Fleming to be a complex character while still being interesting and entertaining. He has a small staff of deputies and a photographer whom is the love interest of Walt. I found some of the characters of little interest and didn't create a bond towards them while reading In Harm's Way.

In Harm's Way is a well crafted story of intrigue and suspense. As I read the book I found myself getting more and more drawn into the story and thinking I knew who did it before I finally reached the end. It is enjoyable when reading a book and not being able to figure out who committed the crime before the end. I was getting to the point where I started to actually talk back to the characters while reading the book. When that happens you know I am drawn into the story.

I will be looking at my library to see if they have any of his books and if not maybe make a request to see if they will in the future. I enjoyed the book and found the writing fun and at times a little tiresome. I felt that Walt would say the same things over and over again and that became annoying at times. Otherwise I enjoyed the story and to me that is the most important thing in a book. You should enjoy the story and not nit pick about writing style unless it really ruins the whole book for you, in my opinion.

I give In Harm's Way 4 1/2 stars out of 5.

Salt ~ Who is she really?

2010-07-24T21:42:00.002-04:00

So I went and saw Salt this afternoon with my friend Amy. She actually asked me what I would say on my blog about the movie. I replied that I was going to tell everyone how I was dragged to the movies again. No one has to drag me to the movies at all. I love to watch movies and I always give each one a chance. I did want to see Salt since I had seen it in the previews this year.

I am not one that has followed Angelina Jolie's acting career. I don't know exactly what she is best known for besides having stolen the heart of Brad Pitt from Jennifer Aniston. Angelina is a wonderful actress in the movies that I have seen her in.

Salt is a movie about a CIA agent (Angelina Jolie), who is told by a Russian informant that she is a Russian spy and will assassinate the Russian President. That is what draws you into this movie. You will wonder if Salt is a spy or is she really being set up by someone during the whole movie.

This film is action packed and the twists and turns in Salt will keep you guessing on the ending of this movie. Angelina Jolie does a fantastic job with the stunts she has in this movie. The way she climbs the walls before she kicks an opponent or when she is running for her life and jumping from semi truck to tanker etc.

As the movie progressed I started to make conclusions about how the movie would end. I was a little surprised by the ending of the movie. I did realize that Salt was not who she really seemed in the movie. Can a person really be one thing and then change after being programmed as a child? That is one thing you will have to discover by going to see Salt.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows REALEASE DATE 11/19/10!!!!

2010-07-23T09:23:00.003-04:00

This is to all HP fans. I just happened to go to my email and had a message in my inbox about what this post had been about. Here is the message:

Hi there,

We found your blog post about Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 1's release date being moved to February 2011. This rumor is not true, and the film is still scheduled for release on November 19, 2010. Please remove this blog posting, as we don't want this rumor to continue being circulated.

Thank you so much for your cooperation!

Best,

Alicia Leung
Interactive Marketing Coordinator / Warner Bros. Pictures

All worrying can now stop!!

The movie I didn't enjoy...

2010-07-22T18:41:00.002-04:00

Well this may be a humdinger to those that know me. I am a huge Harry Potter fan. I have to say that what really got me into Harry Potter was the fact that they were making a movie of the first book, The Sorcerer's Stone. Once I heard about the movie I had to read the book and all I have to say is Thank God for WB doing the movies otherwise I don't think I would have picked the books up.

I am sure you have guessed that the movie I didn't enjoy was an HP movie. Yes that is correct. There is an HP movie that I didn't like when I saw it for the first time in the movie theater. Let me give you some background on my HP movie experiences. When the first movies came out I would see them usually once. At about the 3rd movie I decided to see the movies at midnight and then take the next day off and see it either 3 or 4 times that day. Well I loved each one the first time except for one.

I will say that I did learn after the first couple of movies not to expect everything that was in the books to be in the movie. That is fine I understand that not everything converts well to film. Each of the HP movies improved every time. After I saw the movie I couldn't wait for the next one to come out. I felt that way after Prisoner of Azkaban, Goblet of Fire, Order of the Phoenix, etc... Now for the exception to that previous statement is the last movie that was released last year at this time.

Yes I did not enjoy Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. I was anticipating this movie since I had finished reading the book with the same title and the last book in the series. I was expecting so much from this movie. This was the book that leads up to the war between good and evil. You learn so much about all the characters, Voldemort, Snape, Draco etc... Some of that was there.

I left the theater after seeing the movie at midnight with a bad taste in my mouth. I thought, I am going to see this tomorrow, ugh. I didn't feel a cliff hanger at the end. I felt cheated. I felt blah. I felt like I didn't want to see the last movie when it came out. I was ready to say it was good while it lasted.

Now you maybe thinking, why, so what, you know the books are almost always better then the movies. Yes that maybe true but I still didn't like the movie. I should have know when the movie got a PG rating instead of PG-13 like the 2 previous movies had been rated. Knowing how GoF and OoP books were I figured the HBP movie should also have had a PG-13 possibly R rating. Well it didn't, they made a movie that was just too cute for what should have happened.

I know that in the book there is budding romances and all the characters are starting to realize their attraction to the opposite sex. That is fine but to make that the most important aspect of this movie was just ludicrous. That was nice brevity for the book and the movie but not the whole meaning of the Half Blood Prince. Each book and movie was always about the titles. You want to know who is the Half Blood Prince, the Prisoner of Azkaban etc. I didn't feel that in this movie. I felt it to babyfied (if that is even a word), too much of the sweetness instead of the fights.

My biggest disappointment was the way you find out who the Half Blood Prince is. I just felt oh that was it. I felt Bellatrix was too goofy instead of scary. My son was watching the movie recently and he asked me who the HBP was. He just wanted to know because he thought the person was supposed to be an actual prince. The thing that I don't feel came across well in the movie was that the person who is the HBP is not because they are nobility but it is their mother's last name and that he/she is a Half Blood. I am sure those who are reading this post know who the HBP is I just don't feel comfortable stating it. I don't know why, I guess I just don't want to spoil anything for anyone who hasn't seen the movie.

Now I do have to say that after watching the movie over and over and over for the past couple of weeks, I enjoy the movie and I am looking forward to the last two due out in Nov. 2010 and July 2011. I am looking forward to them because of the previews that I have seen. I hope they live up to what they should be which is R rated movies. Please don't down play the war in these movies. They are supposed to be dark!!

Now I think I have said enough about this movie. I hope to see you all around my blog soon!!

My ramblings..

2010-07-22T18:17:00.003-04:00

This post isn't going to pertain to books or movies. This is just a post of some of my meandering thoughts. So forgive me for my babble and thanks for taking the time to read my babble.

I hope everyone is enjoying this time of year, since it is summer in my part of the country. I know I am quite enjoying this summer even though I have had some ups and downs over the past year. Some of the upsides to this year have been my daughter graduating high school and completing her first year at college. I am thrilled that she is enjoying her college life and education. I sometimes wished I was able to attend a 4 year college and have the experiences she is having, then when I think of that I think I may never have had her or my son. The other great thing is that my son graduated high school this year. I am thrilled that he graduated because he gave us/me a hard time in high school. He always loved school and then high school he just changed. He didn't want to go, he seemed depressed. I never really found out what happened or why he hated school all of a sudden. He finished his schooling by doing online education. I think it was good for him to some extent then other times I think he should have been in the actual classroom. What's done is done, nothing to change now. I just hope he does decide to continue his education because he is a bright person and I know he will be successful at what ever he decides to do.

Another upside to this past year is that I have lost 40 pounds. Yes that is correct. I was astonished when I found out my actual total. Considering I never had a weight problem before in my life to waking up and realizing how unhappy I was with myself and being able to turn things around and start loosing weight. Now I just need to continue with this goal of weight loss so that I can knock some guys socks off again.

Now on to some downsides of this year. I think the biggest downside was last July (2009) a few days after my daughter's graduation party. My husband of 20 years decides to leave me. The way he did it was the cowards way. He did it over the phone. I was with the kids. My daughter and I had just come back from having lunch when I called to see where he was and about what time he would be home. He told me he wasn't coming home. I was shocked to say the very least. My daughter and son heard and saw me crying and I had to tell them.

The thing that hurt me the most was the fact that after I had told my children what he had said, my son left the room and I learned later that he had messaged his dad and asked him if it was his fault. That broke my heart for my child to feel that way. Till this day when I think about it I cry. That message made my husband decide to come home just to put our son at ease and to let them know that it wasn't them but me. My daughter's reaction was tearful and anger at the same time. She wanted answers and yet she was mad at her dad for doing this.

Well to make this a little shorter I will let you know that he said he didn't love me anymore, that I was ugly and fat. He also informed me that he hasn't loved me for awhile. To this day I still don't know if any of that was true or just him trying to make himself feel that what was coming next was okay and that he really wasn't an ass. I found out that there was another woman, younger at that. I really am not sure how old she is, but I believe she is in her late 20's, maybe.

That hurt the most because he left me because some younger, bitch found him attractive. I personally don't think she found him attractive I think she sees him and thinks, unhappy man, with a good job, grown kids so he has to have money. Sorry to inform her but his ass is broke. I was hurt the first time and I still am to this day.

He realized that he still loved me and decided to come back. And let's say that it worked for awhile but then he did something even worse this time around. He took money out of our joint account and gave it to her. Now I usually don't get upset but it was a lot of money and when I asked for money we never had any. That pissed me off even more then him cheating on me. Now all I worry about is if he decides to divorce me how am I going to live on my own and survive. It is very scary and not something I want to experience at this time in my life.

I am at the time in my life when I should be able to enjoy the freedom I now have with the kids being older and preparing them for the real world, but instead I have to worry about them going to college and getting jobs and whether I will have to move in with my dad or someone else just to survive.

Well this post has turned into a very long one and if you do decide to read it I want to say thanks for taking the time and I hope you enjoyed my ramblings. My next one is going to be about a movie that I was not impressed with when I saw it in the movie theater. Happy day all!!

The Sorcerer's Apprentice

2010-07-22T17:56:00.003-04:00

I forgot to post about seeing this movie this past weekend. I am not one that is great with words when trying to write. So I just type what I feel or think about things. Okay now onto my thoughts of this movie.

My friend Amy wanted to go to the movies and she wanted to see this movie. Personally I want to see Inception with Leonardo DiCaprio. Since I am a very nice friend and will pretty much enjoy just about any movie (only one exception to that), I decided to go. I wasn't thrilled with seeing The Sorcerer's Apprentice and I think that is because I have watched all the Harry Potter movies, and I am a huge fan of them, I felt that this movie was just trying to cash in on that idea. I still feel that way but will say that I enjoyed the movie.

I have a retention problem when it comes to recalling movies or even books after I have viewed them or read them, so please forgive me if I mention anything that is not absolutely correct about this movie. First off I have to say that I do enjoy Nicholas Cage as an actor and have seen many of his performances. Mr. Cage did a superb job in his role as Balthazar. I am not going to try and explain all the background information for this movie, mainly because I don't remember everything that was mentioned in the film and I don't think you need to be informed of this before seeing the movie.

The main idea of The Sorcerer's Apprentice is that there is a boy who will be born and will be able to defeat the evil Morgana, who has destroyed Merlin. Morgana wants to take over the world and kill everyone. Morgana is portrayed by Alice Krige. The boy who is supposed to be able to destroy Morgana is named Dave who is played by Jay Baruchel.

I was impressed with the special effects in this movie and found myself drawn into the plot of the movie. I was also impressed with Jay Baruchel, since I don't remember seeing him in too many other movies. His character is an awkward boy and young man and he does fantastic in making those characteristics come out on the screen.

If you need a nice family night out or even just a night out for a relaxing evening I would suggest seeing The Sorcerer's Apprentice. I am quite pleased that I saw this movie and now my goal is to try and talk my friend Amy into going to see Inception.

Knight & Day

2010-07-13T19:29:00.002-04:00

My friend and I had decided we need a night out to the movies and she chose to see Knight and Day with Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz. This wasn't one of my most wanting to see movies but I will go to almost any movie. We chose to see the movie on a Friday afternoon. I didn't anticipate any problems with the movie being sold out.

The movie was entertaining yet I felt it was predictable in some areas. Tom and Cameron were great together in this movie. Tom does a fantastic job of playing a character that you are trying to figure out if he is really insane and paranoid or just doing his job and trying to prove his innocence.

I found myself laughing at the interaction between Cameron and Tom in the fight scenes and just in general. Seeing Tom fight in this movie compared to the Mission Impossible movies was quite refreshing. This is a nice comedy movie to pass a rainy summer day or even a very humid summer day.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0cSz62nq9Y

Genoa Bay by Bette Nordberg ~ Review

2010-07-12T21:25:00.001-04:00

Another book from the ER program at Library Thing.

When I won this book I was delighted and excited about reading the book. I liked and disliked the book. The writing was great and interesting. The story is about a widow, Brandy Beauchamp, who inherits a bed and breakfast in Canada from a woman who took her in as a teenager after she had runaway from home.

The characters you meet in the book are Brandy, her daughter Gabby (just adorable), Eve (Brandy's friend from Florida), Cliff, and Herbert Karras. Brandy's 'adoptive' mother, Maggie, dies and leaves Brandy the old Bed and Breakfast. Brandy receives this inheritance at a time when she is trying to figure where she really belongs since her husbands death. Gabby is a lovable little girl of 7. Gabby is what keeps Brandy going and also questioning everything she does. Brandy decides to try and resurrect the Bed and Breakfast again after much debating in her head. She is afraid of the money she doesn't have to fix the place up. She worries about her daughter not liking the place at first. Brandy also doesn't enjoy feeling needy which makes her stubborn when offered help from the Marina Manager, Cliff.

I found most of the story predictable and boring. The reason the story was boring is when Brandy would always mention god and over analyze everything. I usually don't mind God being mentioned in a story in subtle terms. With Genoa Bay at times I felt that I was being preached to about God, which was a turn off. I then decided to just read the book without thinking about the God references, which made the story more enjoyable.

Towards the end of the book, at about Chapter 20 the story became interesting and I had difficulty putting the book down. I found myself wanting Brandy to win against all the trouble and misfortune that came her way. I felt that Brandy was a fighter but also very vulnerable and unsure of herself. I can not say that this book is a book that I will highly recommend to people. I will say to give it a try and form your own opinions about Genoa Bay.

2 1/2 starsflag abuse

The Broken Blue Line by Connie Dial ~ Review

2010-07-12T21:23:00.001-04:00

This is another book I won through Library Things Early Reviewers program. I have to say that I have been quite pleased with the books I have recently won through the ER Program.

The Broken Blue Line is a book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. I love mysteries with suspense, and a little bit of romance thrown in for some smiles and laughs. I have to say that The Broken Blue line did not disappoint me. I found the characters very endearing and able to appreciate them. I did find myself confused when I first started reading the book. I was getting the characters confused.

The Broken Blue Line is about Internal Affairs and crooked cops. Those styles of books are always very interesting reads. When I read books like this I always visualize it in real life and not just being fiction. Most of these books I feel are based on some actual facts.

Turner is a memeber of IA and soon becomes the focus of an investigation. I found it interesting how the members of his squad were divided about him. Turner's partner and friend, Reggie and Miller are the ones who want to help Turner prove his innocence and at the same time capture the real cop that is their prime suspect.

Reggie is the one that doesn't mind breaking the rules and circumvention authority to get to the truth. Miller is the wise craking one that doesn't like authority. Turner, Reggie and Miller work well together and make the best IA team even though the one boss hates them.

I hope to read more books by Connie Dial.

4 stars

Sidney Sheldon's After the Darkness by Tilly Bagshawe ~ Review

2010-07-12T21:21:00.001-04:00

I won this book through Library Things Early Reviewers program. Sidney Sheldon's After the Darkness is a wonderfully written story of suspense, intrigue, mystery and betrayal. The principle character in After the Darkness is Grace Brookstein. Her character goes through so many changes and growth from the start of the story. Grace is the wife of Lenny Brookstein, who died while out on his boat and the death is ruled a suicide. Lenny is the financial wizard behind an investment company called Quorum.

After the Darkness starts out with Grace on trial for theft of billions of dollars through Quorum. She is innocent and feels that she will be cleared of all charges. Her trusting nature is what causes her many problems and heartbreak through the story. Those who she thought were her family and friends turn on her and don't want to help her during her trial and even after her day in court. She is surprised by her family's reaction. This is when Grace starts to go through a change. She is a lady that is used to things always being easy for her. Grace goes from a trusting, innocent child like woman to a woman of strength and realizes her true worth and that she can stand on her own two feet without the help of a man. I found myself eagerly hoping for her to survive every obstacle and hardship she encountered during the story.

Once you start reading After the Darkness you will not be able to stop. After the Darkness is a page turning novel of intrigue and suspense. I loved how the story was summarized at the end of the book. The ending for Grace is one of pure surprise. You may like it or you may feel jilted.

5 stars

The Lovely Bones ~ Review

2010-07-12T21:06:00.001-04:00

The Lovely Bones is the fictional story of a girl who is brutally murdered and raped. The story starts with her stating she is dead. She then goes on to tell you how it happened. The girl is named Susie and is only 14 when she is murdered. You will not be able to put the book down when you are reading it.

Susie explains how her rape and murdered happened. You know who the culprit is from the very beginning of the story. Susie is the narrator through the whole book. You see things through her eyes. Seeing how her family is dealing with her first missing and then learning she is most likely dead when her elbow is found by a neighbors dog. Her family consists of her sister, Lindsey who is a year younger, her brother Buckley who is only 4 at the time, her mother and father. Her Grandmom comes to help the family cope with the problems that arise during the years after Susie's murder.

Susie's father takes her death hard because they are very close. Her mother deals with Susie's death differently and hurts the whole family in the long run. Lindsey senses that when everyone looks at her they see her sister and closes herself from certain people and also changes. Susie longs to be back with her family and wishes she was on earth with them.

The story is one that pulls at your heart strings. As I read the book it made me think about the people I have lost in my life and how I have always felt that they are with me even when I don't realize it. Susie's father concentrates on finding the person who has done this to his little girl. It starts to consume him and he is always contacting the police to give them advice and to tell them he knows who did it even when he has no evidence.

This is a nice, quick read and one that I highly recommend.

5 stars

Living Dead in Dallas ~ Review

2010-07-12T21:01:00.002-04:00

The second book in the Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris is a very interesting read. The story starts with Sookie discovering a dead body in the police chiefs car that was left in Merlot's parking lot since he was too drunk to drive home last night. The body turns out to be the cook from Merlot's. There are new characters introduced as Sookie and Bill travel to Dallas to help out other vampires who are looking for a vampire that has been missing.

While in Dallas, Sookie meets another person who is a telepath, finds others who transform into other animals just like same. I found the story one that I couldn't put down. I enjoyed seeing Sookie learn more about her powers and to also try communicating with the other telepath when she needed help.

I have been on a kick of reading the Sookie Stackhouse books this year. I would like to read all of the books in this series that have been released but then I don't want to have to wait too long for the next one to be released. I did all that waiting with the Harry Potter books.

I also love the True Blood Series that is based on these books. Even though True Blood doesn't follow the books perfectly I still enjoy both the books and the series as two different entities.

5 stars

The Picture of Dorian Gray ~ Review

2010-07-12T20:58:00.002-04:00

Wow is all I have to say about The Picture of Dorian Gray. I didn't think I would like this book and I was pleasantly surprised with this book. This is the first book I have ever read by Oscar Wilde.

The writing in the book was wonderful. The characters words just flow like music as you read the book. I found myself not wanting to put the book down as I was reading. Dorian, Lord Henry and the Artist Harry interact so well with each other. There is a different relationship between all 3 of them and to see the relationships change through the book was enthralling.

The ending of the book was quite a surprise to me. When I read it I laughed at how well written the story was and the fact that I never realized the ending until the very last second.

I can't wait to read more books written by Oscar Wilde!! I have to say that I am now more curious to read more of the classics then I was before I had picked up The Picture of Dorian Gray

5 stars

American Wife ~ Review

2010-07-12T20:54:00.001-04:00

American Wife is a book I don't feel I would have read on my own. This book was chosen for my Library Book Club. I was quite pleased with the story. American Wife chronicles the life of a girl, Alice Lindgren, whom has become the First Lady. American Wife is written in 4 parts, each part represents where she was living at that time. The story takes place from the 1950's to about 2007.

The first part is her young childhood through about her college years. She goes through a lot during her young life. She discovers her grandmother is a lesbian, she has an abortion and is involved in an accident that kills the boy she has feelings for at this time. The story starts with Alice and her grandmother running into a child from her class and her grandmother thinks the child is a girl when actually the child is a boy. The boy's name is Andrew Imhof. When Alice travels to Chicago with her grandmother is when I really felt the story had drawn me in. I wanted to know what was going to happen next from that moment on.

The next parts are defining moments in Alice's life. She is a librarian at an elementary school and loves to read. It was wonderful to see so many books mentioned throughout this novel. You are introduced to the men that she dates and ultimately her husband. I loved how their romance blossomed in a very short time and they knew how much they loved each other.

4 1/2 stars

My Challenges!!

2010-07-12T19:27:00.002-04:00

Those that know about LibraryThing will understand what I mean by my challenges. Here is some information about LibraryThing (LT). Library Thing is a website that I joined to catalog all my books, either that I own, or borrow. Plus it helps me with keeping track of what I have read and so that I can also remember what certain books are about. On LT there are challenges to do if you are interested. This year I have decided to do a bunch of challenges. They are:

50 Book Challenge
1010 Challenge
Alphabet Challenge
Books off the Shelf Challenge

Here is some information on the Challenges...

50 Book Challenge

My goal is to read 50 books this year. The books can be from any genre, year, writing style etc. I have also included Comic Books. I tried this last year and came up short, so I decided to try for 50 again this year. If I am able to make this challenge I may decide to try for 75 books next year. Here is a link to my 50 Book Challenge: http://www.librarything.com/topic/81167

1010 Challenge

This Challenge is different for everyone. Over the past few years the challenges have been, 999 Challenge or 888 Challenge etc.. That means that your goal is to read 9 books in 9 categories in 2009. You change the amount for each new year, if you want too. Now this 1010 Challenge is being done differently by everyone. Some are doing it as a Step Challenge; which means, 10 Categories and reading 1 book in category 1, 2 books in category 2 etc. Some are doing it with trying to read 5 books in 10 different categories. My goal is to at least read 1 book in 10 Categories. My ultimate goal is to read 5 or more books in each category. Here is a link to my 1010 Challenge: http://www.librarything.com/topic/74938

Alphabet Challenge

Now for my Alphabet Challenge there is no time limit, which means I can finish it in a few years. I started this Challenge in Oct. 2009. This Challenge can be done in different ways.
1. You can read a total of 52 books 26 by Author's Last Name & 26 by the Title of the book.
2. You can read just 26 by either of the choices above.
3. You can also place books in both sections if you want.
You have the freedom to do this Challenge anyway you want to. Here is a link to my Alphabet Challenge: http://www.librarything.com/topic/74894

Books off the Shelf Challenge

This is a challenge to read as many books that you want to this year that have been on your book shelves for too long. My goal is to read 30 books. This one can be difficult because I never know what I want to read at any given time. I will be happy if I read 30 b00kd from my shelves this year. Then maybe I can either donate them, give them away on other sites, or share them with my friends. Here is a link to my Books off the Shelf Challenge: http://www.librarything.com/topic/81591

So those are my Challenges for this year. Most of my reviews are posted in all the threads. I find it interesting as to how LT has made me more aware of the books I read and to also try new authors, genres etc. I hope you have enjoyed this post about my Challenges and maybe you will decide to check out LT for yourself!! Happy Reading All!!!~

I've been MIA for too long!!

2010-07-12T19:24:00.003-04:00

I am back!! I am sorry to have been missing my posts. I really don't know why I haven't posted recently or that often besides having things going on in my life that I just couldn't handle at the time. I am going to start posting my reviews and thoughts on some books I have read over the past couple of months.

Hopefully some people will notice that I am back and will comment on my posts. Hope to see everyone again soon!!

Happy Reading All!!!

The Body in the Library by Agatha Christie

2010-01-09T08:06:00.002-05:00

This is my first Agatha Christie book. I have been informed by many people that I would love Agatha Christie's books. I admit that is true. I started The Body in the Library this morning. Every free moment I had I was reading the book.

How would you react to finding a body in your library? I don't know if I would be as calm as the woman in this book. Mrs. Bantry was thrilled with finding a body in her library. This was her chance to be a sleuth. That is what she was eager for.

The Body in the Library is a Miss Marple Mystery. Miss Marple is the sleuth in the village of St. Mary Mead. Mrs. Bantry calls Miss Marple up to the house when the body is found.

I enjoyed the book except for the parts that were written in French. Since I have never taken French some of the jokes were lost on me. Ms. Christie's writing style is one that is new to me. The book was a nice easy week end read.

5 stars since I didn't know until the very end who the murderer was..

I borrowed this book from the library and since reading this book I have started to purchase Agatha Christie books from the book store.

The Outlander by Gil Adamson

2010-01-09T08:00:00.002-05:00

This book I had started reading and then had my rough patch that I was going through and had trouble concentrating on the book that is why it took so long to read it.

It took me a long time to read this book just because I went through a rough patch in July and Aug. I had borrowed the book from the library in the beginning of July and was really enjoying it when my life took a turn for the worse. I just couldn't read any books with out crying or not knowing what I was reading. I finally had to return the book and waited a few months before I borrowed it again. I am glad I waited and didn't try to read it or just gave up on it.

I really enjoyed the book. The Outlander is the story of a woman in the early 1900's. The story starts with her running from her brother-in-laws. She goes through all these changes as she is on the run. The woman is Mary Boulton. She is a widow.

On her journey she meets many interesting people and really discovers things about herself that she didn't know before. I found myself as I read this book wanting things to work out for her. I was pleased with most of the book except for the end. I felt a little bit was missing. I don't know what it was. I just know I wanted to know what happened with the brother-in-laws, otherwise it was a good book and well worth the time to read.

3 1/2 stars

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne

2010-01-09T07:55:00.003-05:00

The Secret was recommended to me by a friend on Facebook because of something very difficult I am going through. He just kept going on how the book changed his life and that how what you are thinking and feeling is what will happen. I went into reading the book with skepticism. The basis of the book is the Secret to living a wonderful life and being able to receive everything you want and deserve.

As I was reading the book I noticed how my emotions were influencing the things around me. I started to tune into my feelings and try to think positive thoughts. I noticed myself starting to feel better and getting happier as I read the book. I know that I will use this book as a reference when ever I feel negative feelings or thoughts. I am not going to try and persuade anyone that this book is the meaning to life. I will tell you that The Secret is a great book to help you find the real you and to discover the positive energy from with in you. So I would recommend reading The Secret for some great soul searching and healing.

I read this book back in Sept. and Oct. when I had a very difficult situation I was going through. I have to say that this book did help me get through that rough time and has changed the way I view some things in my life and life in general. I cannot say that this book changed my situation and made things better. I do believe it helped but that is all it did for me.

4 stars

Act Like a Gentleman, Think Like a Woman by Maria Bustillos

2010-01-09T07:52:00.001-05:00

Well this was a fantastic book!! I won the book in the Library Thing Member Giveaway program and was looking forward to reading it. I have yet to read Steve Harvey's book that this book is written in response to. I will be reading Steve Harvey's book soon. Act like a Gentleman, Think like a Woman was a very entertaining read even though I am a woman. I could see myself in some of the descriptions of the different types of woman she talks about. I know I am not a Patsy, the name she gives to the woman that every man wants.

Maria writes that Steve's book is talking about how all women want is to get the ring from the guy. She counters with the fact that all men want is to get laid. I found myself laughing while reading the book, because of the things she revealed about women and saying how we love to hear how beautiful we are and that it should be all about us. I have to agree and disagree with that. It is great when a guy praises you and flatters you but sometimes it can get very annoying if it is the only thing that they talk about. I realized that when my hubby says things like that, that I do get turned on. It is nice to hear, we sometimes need to be praised to continue to be happy. At least that is what I noticed in myself while reading this book.

I don't know if everything will work in this book for a guy to find that Patsy so that he can get laid. I will say if you find the girl she describes then you should have no problem with getting what you want.

5 stars

Look Great, Live Green by Deborah Burnes

2010-01-09T07:49:00.003-05:00

I have to thank the publisher for emailing me about this book. I am glad I decided to read and review this book. I found the book very interesting and informative.

When I first started this book I thought it was just going to be someone trying to tell me how I should be using certain types of personal care products and pushing their own products on me. I was truly mistaken. Look Great, Live Green is a book that teaches and informs you of the misconceptions we have been raised to believe. I found the book well written and easy to follow while reading.

If you are trying to figure out why your skin keeps looking older, dryer or just not what you are use it is most likely due to the so called 'natural' products you are currently using. Most of the cosmetics out there are not as natural as you may think. I learned that some of the products that I have now are not as natural as I thought. Anyone that is interested in saving money, time, their skin, and the environment should take a look at this book.

Deborah Burnes has her own line of personal care products that are natural. She did not force her products on you as you read the book. Deborah rates products from, Good, Better and Best. Some categories do just have Better or Best because she felt that was adequate. She also tells you not to try and change everything at once, you need to find your comfort zone and the products that are right for you.

There is a chapter on recipes to create your own natural products which I hope to try sometime. The end of the book lists resources to do research on your own. There is also a section that lists the natural products and there benefits plus a list of toxic ingredients and the cautions on how to handle them, if they are accidentally ingested or make contact with certain parts of the body and some diseases they are linked to. Now just reading those sections makes me not want to use the non natural products just out of fear of really causing severe injuries.

5 stars

Highland Hearts by Virginia Brown

2010-01-09T07:44:00.004-05:00

This book I am giving away over at Librarything.com in the member giveaway of the Early Review program. I also registered it with Bookcrossing.com so it has a BCID number so whomever wins can journal it on there and possibly send it to someone else or leave it somewhere in the wild.

I finally finished this book. This book took me awhile to get into the characters and just the story itself. This book started off slow for me with not much action or love interest. Once the story got interesting I was able to read the book without feeling like a chore.

This is the story of a Scottish Lass named Lianna. She is a proper lass and educated, she is just a naive young lady about life, relationships and the such. Lianna and her cousin Mary are watching these soldiers march into Glencoe when Lianna falls into the arms of a very handsome Scottish fellow, Cameron. Right from that moment you know that they have feelings for each other but it felt so boring.

Once the massacre happens at Glencoe is when the love and romance really start to show and bloom. Lianna and Cameron are trying to survive in the highlands while a blizzard is happening. This is when the story moved for me, most of the time. I skipped a lot of the little descriptions about their surroundings because it felt very boring and not interesting at all.

Not a book that I want to keep. I gave it 2 1/1 stars

Here's to you Rachel Robinson by Judy Blume

2010-01-09T07:34:00.003-05:00

One thing about my blog is that I try to post all book reviews, whether they are new or old books. I know I haven't been posting them as much lately, it is just that I have been busy with the holidays and the new year. I am going to post most of my reviews that I wrote since May of 2009. Hopefully I will be better this year with posting all of them on time. Here are my thoughts on Here's to you Rachel Robinson, a kids book.

You may wonder why I decided to read a kids/childrens book, well it is because I was doing a challenge last year and one of the categories was to read YA/Children books. It is nice to see what you think of a book that you had when you were little now that you are older.

This is a very nice easy read for young pre-teens. I read the book just because I wanted a nice light easy read. I found myself laughing at the girls in the book as I remembered acting sometimes like them.

Rachel Robinson is a 13 year old girl who is highly intelligent and loves to learn. She is the youngest of the children in her family. She has an older brother who she finds annoying. I am sure many sisters would agree that their brother would be annoying too.

Rachel has two friends who she shares almost everything with. Her friends find her brother cute and interesting which makes her mad at them sometimes. 41/2 stars

Review of Peter Carrot-top in Search of the 8th Key

2009-05-31T15:32:00.001-04:00

Well this review is not going to be nice. Peter Carrot-top is a book that I had to force myself to finish reading. When I had originally seen this book offered on Member Giveaway it sounded interesting and I thought I'd give it a try. Unfortunately Peter Carrot-top did not capture my attention. I found the book very slow going in the beginning. I know that the beginning of books can be boring but this book was poorly written. It felt choppy to me as I was reading the book.

This book is about ghosts, wizards, good vs. evil, and the elders of Baja. Baja is going to have a war amongst the wizards and ghosts of Baja. The concept for the book is different and I feel had the potential to be a very interesting story. Yolanda Jackson does not bring forth a good story. I found many grammatical errors, words missing in sentences and just general horrendous editing.

I am glad to say that I finished the story and can be very honest that the story took a long time to really get interesting. It took until approximately chapter 18 to really get to the adventure and battles, but once again it felt drawn out and overly wordy. Once you get to the final battle and Peter needs to get the key to free the elders it is interesting and then every think works out and the story ends. As I was reading the book, a chapter would start to get interesting, then the next chapter would start and it would become monotonous.

I would not recommend this book just because I did not enjoy it. There may be someone out there that would enjoy this style of writing but I did not. This book rates 1 star out of 5

Sworn to Silence by Linda Castillo

2009-05-18T17:37:00.002-04:00

When I had seen this book offered on Library Thing Early Reviewers I was very interested in the book. I didn't win the boo but a fellow LTER finished with it and offered it to others. I am thrilled to have requested the book and to have had the privilege of reading Sworn To Silence.

The main character of Sworn to Silence is Kate Burkholder who grew up Amish and decided to leave the Amish way of life. She is now the Chief of Police in Painters Mill, Ohio, her former hometown. She has a secret that makes Sworn to Silence a thriller.

The plot of Sworn to Silence is that a serial murdered is back after sixteen years. After the first body is discovered questions arise as to, why such a long hiatus between these murders? Does Kate know who the murderer is?

You will be trying to figure out who the murderer is and if Kate really is hiding the identity of the murderer. You are in for a jolt of surprises and mutilation in the murders. If you can handle reading about torture and sex crimes then grab yourself a copy of Sworn to Silence by Linda Castillo.

I was utterly thrilled by this book and look forward to reading more books by Linda Castillo.

5 stars

My view of Alien abuductions

2009-05-10T21:13:00.000-04:00

Gray Apocalypse is a book that keeps you wanting more. Once you start reading, Gray Apocalypse, you won't be able to stop. James Murdoch has written a fantastic Science Fiction Thriller in Gray Apocalypse.

The Breeder Grays are the aliens that have been abducting humans for six decades. Their ultimate goal is to destroy all human life on Earth. So that the hybrids they have created can begin a new alien species on Earth.

Michael Kendon is the only one that can stop the Breeder Grays from destroying the Earth with the asteroid that the Breeder Grays control. Kendon only has three days till the asteroid will collide with the Earth. So many obstacles hinder Kendon on his mission to save mankind from total obliteration.

You will be drawn into this fast paced, action packed, thriller right from the start. Expect to loose yourself in the universe of the unknown. Pick up Gray Apocalypse and spend a day or two in a world with aliens. For James Murdoch's first novel he wrote and excellent Science Fiction Thriller in Gray Apocalypse.

5 stars

Review-Betty Crocker's Cooky Book

2009-05-10T11:34:00.000-04:00

I remember my mom making cookies from this book. This was her book and was published in 1963. I loved reading the recipes and seeing the marks she made next to the cookies she made.
There are recipes in here that I have never even seen before. This book is great for all levels of bakers. The beginning goes over some basic utensils, measuring and even some hints. I highly enjoyed seeing the variations to many of the recipes in the book, just by adding a different spice or adding nuts.
The best part of the book for me was the section called Betty Crocker's Best Cookies. My version has the best cooky of certain 10 year or 5 year periods starting at 1880. I enjoyed reading the blurb about the cookie and the historical highlights of events that happened during those periods.
So if you need a new cookie recipe or just want to find an old favorite then check out Betty Crocker's Cooky Book!!

5 stars

Roadside Prey by Alva Busch

2009-05-10T11:30:00.000-04:00

This book was very interesting to say the least. I was grossed out by most of the stuff this guy did to the women. Roadside Prey is the true story about Robert Ben Rhoades and his murders and assaults to women that he picked up on the highway, or at truck stops.
The story begins with Rhoades picking up a girl at a truck stop. Just reading the book gave me chills at how the young girls just went with him. He was able to manipulate them and make them feel very comfortable with him. As you read the book you learn more about his personal life and addiction to violent sex. If you can handle explicit detail about women having their bodies tortured with the devices that are shown in the book then you should give this book a chance.
I don't want to give away too much about what exactly happened to the girls, women and young ladies but just know that this guy was a sadistic man.

5 stars

Review-Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown

2009-05-10T11:20:00.001-04:00

I have to first start off by saying that I have never trusted anyone who was or is a politician. I have always said that politicians lie, cheat and steal from their so called friends. So now on that happy note I have to say that I am some what surprised at what I read in Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee. Mainly because of the way The White men swindled the Indians out of their land. As I read the book I would gasp at the things that I read. I hate to even think that I am possibly related to any of those white men. I do remember reading about the Trail of Tears, when I worked in the fourth grade. I just remember not really understanding why that happened. You are made to think that the Indians did some thing wrong and are savages.

This is a book that everyone should take the time to read. There is so much more information in this book then in any American History book you will ever read. We owe those Indians a lot. As I was reading the book I was talking to my husband's one uncle and he said that I would be shocked by the truth. He was right. And to think that all these years I never knew what I know now. I am glad to say that my kids are part Indian/Native American on their father's side. My son has been told that he looks like a Native American even with is red hair and blue eyes.

I loved this book and I am going to be looking for more books about Indians/Native American. I give this book 5 stars.

Review- Fear of Flying by Erica Jong

2009-04-14T19:26:00.002-04:00

This is a book that I have had on my shelf for a few years. I obtained the book from my brother in law when he moved into his house and there were boxes of books that the previous owner left there. He threw a few boxes out before my husband was able to tell him I would take them. I think I got lucky getting this book.

I decided to read Fear of Flying for a change of pace. I sure chose the right book for that. When I started reading Fear of Flying the title of the first chapter caught my attention. I have read books with cursing in them before but not one with it in the title. That didn't stop me from continueing the book, that made me more interested.

If you are needing a change in what you have been reading then pick up Fear of Flying. Fear of Flying is a story of what a woman really thinks about when it comes to sex. I found myself laughing inside while reading Fear of Flying.

Isadora is the lead female character who is married to Bennett, an analyist. Isadora is a writer. The revolves around Isadora and her feelings about family, sex and what she really wants out of life. Her sisters think she should stop writing and start a family. Isadora doesn't want to become like her sisters yet.

Fear of Flying was an enjoyable read even though at times I felt confused or lost in the story. I give Fear of Flying 3 1/2 stars out of 5 because of my getting lost or confused. I did enjoy the book I just don't know if it will be one that I will re-read anytime soon.

Workshop of The Second Self by Gary Wolf

2009-03-29T15:07:00.003-04:00

I know two reviews posted in one day. This is a first for me. I have not been keeping up with this blog as much as I would like to. I read this book in about 5 days and have been thinking about how to review it. I know I over analyze everything I write or even consider writing. Now on to my review.

I received this book also from LT's Member Giveaway. I was surprised to receive the book the day after I found out I had won it. Very fast service made me want to read this book right away and write my review.

Workshop of The Second Self is a highly entertaining book and kept me glued to the pages. Every time I placed the book down I would pick it right back up and start reading again. The concept of a society in the future and being able to change yourself so that you can become some one better because you feel that you are entitled to it was the concept of this book. I consider it a society running amok.
The story is about a Disability Advocate, Clifton Pembroke, who is always helping people who are less fortunate to take over some one elses life, income and money. Clifton then becomes the target of a Disability Case. Now the shoe is on the other foot. He could loose everything and it causes many things to happen.
I could go on and ruin this book by telling you exactly what happens but that isn't fair to the author or to you. I suggest that if you have become intrigued by this review that you run out or search the web for Gary Wolf's book, Workshop of the Second Self and buy the book. I rate the book 4 1/2 stars out of 5.

Review-Stonger After Stroke

2009-03-29T14:56:00.003-04:00

This is a book that I received from Library Things (LT) Member Giveaways. It is an Advanced Copy and there were some typographical errors which I expected. I found the book quite informative and very useful. Even though I have not suffered a stroke nor am I currently caring for some one I am glad to have had the opportunity to read the book and do my review. I have posted a review on LT and my forum.

Stronger After Stroke is a great book to learn about helping someone that has suffered a stroke. You learn that you should push the limits yet be cautious and always consult your doctor. Peter Levine does a great job of explaining the recovery process in detail. I like how each section was set up the same so you knew what to expect as you read. You first learn the concept/idea and then you learn how it is done. The last part of each section you are given the Precautions that should be taken.

If you consider yourself someone that wants to for armed with information than Stronger After Stroke is a great book to consider. This is the first time that I have ever read a book like this and was very pleased with the outcome of my experience. I feel confident to say that I am more prepared then before and that I can offer advice to someone if it is needed.

Chery's Book Nook: With Love from Hachette book group giveaway!!

2009-02-09T21:41:00.004-05:00

Here is a contest to win some great books!!! Check it out:

http://cherylsbooknook.blogspot.com/2009/02/with-love-from-hachette-book-group.html

Bookshipper: ITS CONTEST TIME AGAIN!!!!

2009-02-09T21:20:00.000-05:00

Bookshipper: ITS CONTEST TIME AGAIN!!!!: "Create a Link"

Check this out!!

ARC - The Addict by Michael Stein

2009-02-05T19:09:00.002-05:00

This is a book that I won on Library Things Early Reviewers. Below is my review of the book. I don't think I write the best reviews. I just write how I honestly feel about the books that I read.

When I read the little blurb about this book I figured it was about one patient and everything that that patient went through for that whole year. As I read the book I started to realize that the author is talking about one kind of patient and not just one person.

Michael introduces us to Lucy, who is the main patient he talks about in the book. The kind of patient he is also talking about in the book is the patient that is an Opiate addict. The author mentions other addicts who are either addicted to OxyContin, Heroin or Lucy's drug of choice Vicodin.

It took me awhile to get into the book mainly because of the author being in a session with Lucy and then he would start to write about another addict he was seeing, facts about addiction in general or just some questions he wanted to ask but didn't.

Overall the book was great and I highly enjoyed it. I was interested in seeing how Lucy would handle the affects of going through withdrawal from Vicodin. This isn't your typical book about a drug addict going into detox. This is a story about a young lady wanting to have a normal life without drugs. The Doctor has a program for addicts. It is not open to just anyone. He chooses those that he feels will benefit from his program. It is a slow process and not something that can happen over a few days, weeks or even months, especially when the addict has been using for about 15 years.

I give this book 3 1/2 stars out of 5

Presenting Lenore: Book Giveaway: Penguin Prize Pack 8+ YA Books!

2009-01-19T14:22:00.000-05:00

Presenting Lenore: Book Giveaway: Penguin Prize Pack 8+ YA Books!

2009-01-19T14:21:00.002-05:00

The Johnstown Flood of 1889 the Tragedy of the Conemaugh - Review

2009-01-19T07:57:00.002-05:00

The Johnstown Flood of 1889 the Tragedy of the Conemaugh is written by Paula and Carl Degen. This is a book I bought at the Johnstown Flood museum years ago. I had never known about the Johnstown Flood until my in laws had taken us to the museum on one of our family vacations.

I love to read about actual events through out the world. This is something that I found interesting because it is something that happened in the state that I live. Even though it happened many years ago it is still something that shapes us as people and also to see how man can cause such terrible events themselves.

If you like to learn about history then this is a book you will enjoy. I give this book 5 stars.

Restless Hearts by Marta Perry - Review

2009-01-19T07:54:00.001-05:00

This is a romance book I received for free in the mail. It is a Love Inspired book by Steeple Hill. They are trying to get me to join a club. This is the 2nd book I have received and read by Steeple Hill. I am really enjoying these books.

This book is about a woman who moves from San Francisco to Pennsylvania Dutch to become a mid wife. I found the story fast moving and couldn't stop reading it. It is nice to read a book about love and god together. Fiona moves to Pennsylvania Dutch and finds the families she has been missing all her life. Her mother's family is Amish and her father's family is not. Fiona knew nothing about her mother's family all she was ever told by her father was that her mother's family didn't want her mother back because she married him. I enjoyed this story considering I live in Pennsylvania and it was nice to see the Amish depicted so well in this story.

I rate the book 5 out of 5 stars.

You Lost him at Hello by Jess McCann -Review

2009-01-19T07:47:00.004-05:00

I won this book on Internet Book Database and placing my review on my blog. This review is also on my website Monica's Media Madness, Library Thing and Books & Chat.

If you are single and tired of dating the wrong guy this book is for you. I enjoyed the book even though I am not single and looking for a man. The reason I enjoyed the book is because it made me think about the way I act around people whether men or women. I also started to pay attention to the way I act around people. There are parts of the book that I can see also helping you out if you are married.

This book is written by a sales woman, Jess McCann. She has taken the rules for making a sale and has used the techniques to get dates. Some of the things she talks about are knowing your product, love your product, packaging your product etc. The product in this book is you.

The SEE factor does work. It stands for Smile. Eye contact. Energy. Just try it when you are walking down the street or in the mall. See a guy whether he would be someone you really liked just look at him make eye contact smile with energy, then watch for the reaction. The reason I say that this works is because I have tried it at work or just when I am out and about. If I see a guy that I think is good looking I will do the SEE factor. I am not looking for them to approach me but it is nice when you see them smile back and give you a little nod or wave. You have made their day along with them making my day by acknowledging me.

Jess also dishes on her friends and explains what some of them do wrong. That made the book more real and not just a person trying to tell you something that they haven't tried themselves.

I rate this book 3 1/2 stars out of 5.

Real Vampires Have Curves - Review

2009-01-11T15:05:00.004-05:00

I finished reading this book in about 2 days. I really enjoyed this book. It was a cute funny book. I chuckled when Glory would be thinking and the other vamps would answer her questions that she never spoke out loud.

Glory made me feel that she is more of a real vamp then the ones I have seen in the Twilight books (which I do love). Gloriana or Glory as her friends call her, is a full figured Vampire. She was bitten when she was bloated. Glory is a vamp that has blended in with the humans for centuries and now she is trying to find her vamp powers.

There is a Vampire Hunter who makes Glory his next target. Blade, her on off again boyfriend comes to the rescue and wants her in more ways then I can say here. There is sex, death and more in this book.

I give it 4 out of 5 stars...

Review of The Tales of Beedle the Bard

2009-01-07T22:27:00.000-05:00

Well I finally got a chance to read this book. It was a very easy and enjoyable read. I enjoyed trying to figure out the meaning of the Fairy tales for the wizarding world.

The commentary from Dumbledore was quite entertaining.

If you need an easy and quick read then this is a good book to fulfill that need. I would give this book a 3 1/2 stars.

In Bed With Books: In Too Deep (+ Contest)

2009-01-07T06:15:00.000-05:00

In Bed With Books: In Too Deep (+ Contest)

Great book!!! Click and check it out!!!

Bookshipper: CONTEST TIME: Celebrating 2009

2009-01-06T18:11:00.000-05:00

Bookshipper: CONTEST TIME: Celebrating 2009

Very cool idea. I hope you get a lot of participants... Happy New Year!!!

Playing Dead by Allison Brennan Review

2008-11-16T09:34:00.004-05:00

Okay I am posting my reviews of Playing Dead by Allison Brennan. I have written 2 reviews. I never feel that my reviews are well written. I usually just write how I feel about a book and nothing more. I have tried doing it differently and I hope you enjoy reading them.

Playing Dead is a superbly written mystery, thriller, suspense and romance novel all in one. Once you pick the book up you will have trouble putting it down.
Claire O'Brien is a PI whose father (Tom O'Brien) was found guilty of murdering his wife and her lover. Tom has always claimed he is innocent. Claire was only fourteen at the time of the murders and the key witness against her father.
A young aspiring law student named, Oliver Maddox, contacts Tom in prison after reading about his case. Oliver believes Tom is innocent and is going to prove it.
Tom escapes from prison when an earthquake hits California. Oliver Maddox's body is discovered in the Sacramento River. What does this mean for Tom O'Brien's case and for Claire's relationship with her father?
You will be on the edge of your seat as you read Playing Dead!

That was one of my reviews. Now I am going to post my next review.

I finally finished the book and have to say that this book is filled with suspense, mystery and romance.
You are introduced to the characters and given the back ground information needed to know the basis of the book.
Fifteen years ago, Claire O'Brien, then 14 decides to go home from school for lunch. She walks in on her mom and her mom's lover, an assistant district attorney. Claire calls her father because she is upset about finding her mom in that situation.
Tom O'Brien decides to confront his wife and lover so that he can end this charade of a marriage. When he arrives at his house he finds his wife and her lover shot dead in bed. Claire is the one that sees her father in the room and assumes he killed her mother and the other man. She is the prime witness in her father's trial.
Claire goes through years of believing her father is guilty, and starting a new life without him. An aspiring young attorney does research and discovers things that can prove her father's innocence. Claire does not believe the guy and ignores everything he tells her, until her father, who had escaped from prison during an earthquake, leaves Claire a note telling her everything she needs to know to try and clear his name. She is torn between wanting to believe her father is innocent and a murderer.
The story is now set for a page turning, full suspense thriller that you won't be able to put down. The FBI does everything to capture the fugitive Tom O'Brien. There is one FBI agent, Mitch Bianchi, who believes Tom is innocent and befriends Claire. He wants to find Tom before the local PD does, otherwise Tom is a dead man. Mitch is falling for Claire, just as Claire starts to be able to trust someone.
Once you start reading Playing Dead you will be pulled into the suspense, thrills, mystery and romance of the 3rd book of the Prison Break trilogy. If you haven't already picked up this book to read I suggest you do.

I know I will be reading the first two books in this trilogy!!

Those are my reviews. I really enjoyed the book and am looking forward to reading the rest of her books that she has written and will be writing in the near future. If you have never read any of her books I highly recommend that you give her a chance.

Just to introduce myself

2008-11-15T15:50:00.000-05:00

Hello all, I just want to introduce myself. My name is Monica or you can call me Nutz. I decided to create a blog so I can just put my thoughts out there for all to see. I love to read and watch movies. I have 2 teenagers and a wonderful husband. That is all I am going to say for now... I will write more later...

Nutz4 Reading's Thoughts....

The Undertaker by William Brown - Review and Interview

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton

Review - That Day in September by Artie Van Why

Keep Watching!!

Update from Hurricane

Preparing for Hurricane Irene

The End of Summer...

Tears for the lives lost 9/11

Review - Paper Towns by John Green

Review - ER Book - The Silent Enemy by Thomas W. Young

Review - The Secret Garden

A Sad, Sad Day...

Definitely Dead By Charlaine Harris

My Reading List of 2010

Contest

My Reading List for this year 2011

Catching up

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!

CONTEST*CONTEST*CONTEST

The Expendables - Movie Review

French Cuisine?

I am back!!

Nights in Rodanthe by Nicholas Sparks- my review

Act Like a Lady Think Like a Man by Steve Harvey- My review...

Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist

The Most Awesomeness Movie of the Summer!!

In Harm's Way by Ridley Pearson ~ Review

Salt ~ Who is she really?

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows REALEASE DATE 11/19/10!!!!

The movie I didn't enjoy...

My ramblings..

The Sorcerer's Apprentice

Knight & Day

Genoa Bay by Bette Nordberg ~ Review

The Broken Blue Line by Connie Dial ~ Review

Sidney Sheldon's After the Darkness by Tilly Bagshawe ~ Review

The Lovely Bones ~ Review

Living Dead in Dallas ~ Review

The Picture of Dorian Gray ~ Review

American Wife ~ Review

My Challenges!!

I've been MIA for too long!!

The Body in the Library by Agatha Christie

The Outlander by Gil Adamson

The Secret by Rhonda Byrne

Act Like a Gentleman, Think Like a Woman by Maria Bustillos

Look Great, Live Green by Deborah Burnes

Highland Hearts by Virginia Brown

Here's to you Rachel Robinson by Judy Blume

Review of Peter Carrot-top in Search of the 8th Key

Sworn to Silence by Linda Castillo

My view of Alien abuductions

Review-Betty Crocker's Cooky Book

Roadside Prey by Alva Busch

Review-Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown

Review- Fear of Flying by Erica Jong

Workshop of The Second Self by Gary Wolf

Review-Stonger After Stroke

Chery's Book Nook: With Love from Hachette book group giveaway!!

Bookshipper: ITS CONTEST TIME AGAIN!!!!

ARC - The Addict by Michael Stein

Presenting Lenore: Book Giveaway: Penguin Prize Pack 8+ YA Books!

The Johnstown Flood of 1889 the Tragedy of the Conemaugh - Review

Restless Hearts by Marta Perry - Review

You Lost him at Hello by Jess McCann -Review

Real Vampires Have Curves - Review

Review of The Tales of Beedle the Bard

In Bed With Books: In Too Deep (+ Contest)

Bookshipper: CONTEST TIME: Celebrating 2009

Playing Dead by Allison Brennan Review

Just to introduce myself

CONTESTCONTESTCONTEST